A surgical simulator comprising a haptic arm capable of simulating forces generated during surgery from interactions between a surgical tool and tissue operated upon. The simulator further comprises a visual display capable of depicting a three-dimensional image of the simulated surgical tool and a physics-based computer model of the tissue. The haptic arm controls the movement and orientation of the simulated tool in the three-dimensional image, and provides haptic feedback forces to simulate forces experienced during surgery. Methods for simulating surgery and training users of the simulator are also described.
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2. The system of claim 1, wherein the two-dimensional view of the portion of the human body and the two-dimensional view showing the first surgical tool are displayed within a window on the display, and wherein the entire window is displayed over at least a portion of the three-dimensional image of the portion of the human body.
This invention relates to a surgical visualization system that enhances the display of medical imaging data during procedures. The system addresses the challenge of integrating two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) imaging views to provide surgeons with a comprehensive and unobstructed view of the surgical site. The system generates a 3D image of a portion of a human body, such as an organ or anatomical structure, and simultaneously displays a 2D view of the same portion alongside a 2D view showing a surgical tool. These 2D views are presented within a window that overlays at least part of the 3D image, ensuring that the 2D information is visible without obscuring critical areas of the 3D model. The window can be positioned and sized dynamically to maintain visibility of relevant anatomical features while providing real-time tool tracking. This approach improves spatial awareness and precision during surgery by combining different imaging modalities in a single, cohesive display. The system is particularly useful in minimally invasive procedures where accurate tool positioning is essential.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the simulated surgical tools comprises a tip and the tip comprises a simulated blade.
This invention relates to a surgical simulation system designed to train medical professionals in performing surgical procedures. The system addresses the need for realistic, hands-on training without the risks associated with practicing on live patients or cadavers. The primary system includes a simulated surgical environment with interactive tools that mimic real surgical instruments, providing haptic feedback and visual responses to user actions. The system is configured to simulate various surgical scenarios, allowing trainees to practice techniques such as incisions, suturing, and tissue manipulation in a controlled setting. A key feature of the system involves the inclusion of simulated surgical tools with specialized tips, such as a simulated blade. These tools are designed to replicate the functionality and feel of real surgical instruments, enhancing the realism of the training experience. The simulated blade allows trainees to practice precise cutting motions, while the system provides feedback to ensure proper technique. The tools may also include other components, such as handles or grips, that further enhance the simulation's accuracy. The system may track tool movements and interactions with virtual tissues, providing real-time feedback to improve training effectiveness. This setup enables medical professionals to develop and refine their skills in a safe, repeatable environment.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the two-dimensional view shows the angle of the first simulated surgical tool in relation to the portion of the human body.
This invention relates to a medical visualization system for simulating surgical procedures. The system addresses the challenge of providing accurate spatial orientation of surgical tools relative to a patient's anatomy during training or planning. The system generates a two-dimensional view that displays the angle of a first simulated surgical tool in relation to a specific portion of the human body. This visualization helps users understand the tool's orientation and positioning during simulated interventions. The system may also include a three-dimensional model of the human body or a specific anatomical region, allowing users to interact with and manipulate the simulated tools in a virtual environment. The two-dimensional view dynamically updates as the tool's position or angle changes, providing real-time feedback. This feature is particularly useful for training surgeons or medical professionals in minimally invasive procedures where precise tool orientation is critical. The system may further incorporate haptic feedback or additional visual cues to enhance the realism of the simulation. By integrating these elements, the system improves the accuracy and effectiveness of surgical training and planning.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the first simulated surgical tool comprises a tip, and the angle is measured as the angle between the line tangential to the closest point of the portion of the human body to the tip of the first simulated surgical tool and the orientation of the longitudinal axis of the tip of the first simulated surgical tool to the portion of the human body.
This invention relates to a surgical simulation system that measures the angle between a simulated surgical tool and a human body part during a simulated procedure. The system includes a first simulated surgical tool with a tip and a second simulated surgical tool, both interacting with a portion of a human body in a virtual environment. The system calculates the angle between the longitudinal axis of the tool's tip and a line tangential to the closest point on the body part. This measurement helps assess the tool's orientation relative to the body, improving training accuracy by providing precise feedback on tool positioning. The system may also track the tool's movement and simulate interactions with the body, such as cutting or suturing, to enhance realism. The angle measurement ensures proper alignment during simulated procedures, addressing the challenge of training surgeons to maintain optimal tool angles for effective and safe operations. The invention aims to improve surgical training by providing detailed, real-time feedback on tool orientation, reducing errors in simulated environments.
6. The system of claim 4, wherein the two-dimensional view further shows two range lines indicating a range of angles for the angle of the first simulated surgical tool.
This invention relates to a surgical navigation system that provides a two-dimensional view of a surgical tool's position and orientation within a patient's body. The system addresses the challenge of accurately visualizing the tool's angle during minimally invasive procedures, where precise positioning is critical. The two-dimensional view includes two range lines that indicate the acceptable range of angles for the surgical tool, helping surgeons maintain optimal alignment. The system likely integrates with imaging data, such as CT or MRI scans, to overlay the tool's position in real time. The range lines dynamically adjust based on predefined surgical parameters or anatomical constraints, ensuring the tool remains within safe and effective boundaries. This feature enhances precision, reduces errors, and improves surgical outcomes by providing clear visual guidance. The system may also include additional tools or reference markers to further assist in navigation. The invention is particularly useful in procedures requiring high accuracy, such as neurosurgery or orthopedic interventions.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein an area between the two range lines is highlighted with a color.
A system for visualizing data ranges on a display includes a graphical user interface that presents two range lines representing upper and lower bounds of a data range. The system highlights the area between these two range lines with a color to enhance visual distinction. The range lines are dynamically adjustable by a user, allowing real-time modification of the data range. The system may also include a data input module to receive data values and a processing module to determine whether the values fall within the defined range. Visual indicators, such as color-coded markers or labels, may be applied to data points outside the range to alert the user. The highlighting feature improves clarity by making the range boundaries and the enclosed area more prominent, aiding in data analysis and decision-making. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise range-based data interpretation, such as financial analysis, scientific research, or quality control. The color highlighting ensures quick visual identification of the range area, reducing cognitive load and improving efficiency.
8. The system of claim 7 wherein the color changes depending on whether an angle of the first simulated surgical tool is within a predetermined range of angles.
This invention relates to a surgical simulation system that provides visual feedback to a user during simulated surgical procedures. The system includes a display device and a tracking system that monitors the position and orientation of a simulated surgical tool in real time. The system generates a virtual representation of the surgical tool on the display, and the color of this representation changes dynamically based on the tool's angle relative to a predetermined range of angles. This visual feedback helps the user maintain proper tool orientation, improving accuracy and safety in simulated surgical training. The system may also include a haptic feedback mechanism to provide additional tactile guidance. The invention aims to enhance surgical training by providing real-time, intuitive feedback on tool positioning, reducing errors and improving procedural outcomes in a simulated environment.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the guideline is deleted when the first haptic arm is moved.
A system for interactive haptic guidance includes a first haptic arm and a second haptic arm, each capable of providing force feedback to a user. The system generates a guideline, such as a virtual path or boundary, that the first haptic arm follows or avoids. The guideline is dynamically adjusted based on the position or movement of the second haptic arm, allowing real-time interaction between the two arms. The system ensures that the guideline remains consistent with the intended task, such as surgical training or robotic assistance, by updating its parameters in response to changes in the second haptic arm's position. When the first haptic arm is moved, the guideline is deleted, preventing unintended interference or constraints on the user's actions. This system enhances precision and adaptability in haptic feedback applications by enabling seamless coordination between multiple haptic devices.
11. The system of claim 9, wherein the guideline is deleted when the three-dimensional image of the first simulated surgical tool appears on the display.
This invention relates to a surgical navigation system that provides visual guidance during medical procedures. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining clear visibility of surgical tools in three-dimensional (3D) imaging environments, where overlapping visual elements can obscure critical information. The system includes a display that shows a 3D image of a surgical tool and a guideline representing a planned surgical path or target. The guideline is dynamically removed from the display when the 3D image of the surgical tool appears, ensuring that the tool's position is not visually obstructed. This improves the surgeon's ability to accurately align the tool with the intended surgical path or target. The system may also include a tracking device to monitor the tool's position in real time and adjust the display accordingly. The guideline is automatically deleted to prevent visual clutter, enhancing precision and reducing the risk of errors during surgery. The invention is particularly useful in minimally invasive procedures where precise tool positioning is critical.
12. The system of claim 9, wherein the guideline is displayed as above the first simulated surgical tool.
A surgical simulation system provides a virtual environment for training medical professionals in minimally invasive procedures. The system addresses the challenge of accurately replicating real-world surgical conditions, including tool positioning and spatial awareness, to improve training effectiveness. The system includes a display that renders a simulated surgical tool and a guideline, such as a reference line or marker, to assist users in aligning the tool with anatomical structures. The guideline is positioned above the first simulated surgical tool, ensuring clear visibility and reducing visual clutter. This feature helps users maintain proper orientation and precision during simulated procedures, enhancing the realism and educational value of the training. The system may also incorporate haptic feedback and real-time adjustments to further simulate the physical interactions of surgical instruments. By providing visual and spatial guidance, the system improves user performance and reduces errors in simulated surgical tasks.
13. The system of claim 9, wherein the guideline is displayed as below the first simulated surgical tool.
A surgical simulation system provides real-time guidance for medical procedures by displaying a virtual guideline in a simulated environment. The system includes a display device showing a simulated surgical tool and a virtual guideline positioned below the tool to assist in precise surgical navigation. The guideline is dynamically adjusted based on real-time data from sensors or imaging systems, ensuring accurate alignment with anatomical structures. The system may also include haptic feedback to enhance user interaction, providing tactile responses that correspond to the virtual guideline's position. This technology addresses the challenge of improving surgical precision by offering visual and tactile guidance in a simulated environment, reducing errors during training or actual procedures. The virtual guideline is particularly useful for complex surgeries where exact tool positioning is critical, such as in minimally invasive or robotic-assisted procedures. The system integrates with existing surgical simulation platforms, allowing seamless incorporation into training programs or pre-operative planning tools. By providing clear, adjustable guidance, the system enhances the learning experience for surgeons and improves procedural outcomes.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the appearance of a portion of the guideline is altered when the first simulated surgical tool passes above the guideline.
This invention relates to a surgical navigation system that enhances visualization of guidelines during simulated surgical procedures. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining clear visibility of critical reference lines or guidelines in a surgical environment, where they may be obscured by surgical tools or other elements. The system includes a display that renders a simulated surgical environment with at least one guideline, such as a reference line or boundary, and one or more simulated surgical tools. The system dynamically alters the appearance of a portion of the guideline when a simulated surgical tool passes above it, ensuring the guideline remains visible and distinguishable. This alteration may involve changing the color, brightness, thickness, or other visual properties of the guideline segment. The system may also include tracking mechanisms to monitor the position of the surgical tool relative to the guideline and adjust the display accordingly. The invention improves surgical precision by preventing guidelines from being obscured, thereby reducing the risk of errors during procedures. The system is particularly useful in minimally invasive surgeries, robotic-assisted surgeries, and other procedures where accurate spatial awareness is critical.
15. The system of claim 9, wherein the microscope is further configured to display an incision line indicating a virtual incision made by the first simulated surgical tool.
This invention relates to a surgical simulation system that enhances precision in medical procedures by providing real-time visual feedback. The system addresses the challenge of improving surgical training and planning by simulating incisions and other surgical actions in a virtual environment. The microscope component of the system is configured to display an incision line representing a virtual incision made by a simulated surgical tool. This visual feedback allows users to assess the accuracy and effectiveness of their simulated surgical actions. The system includes a simulated surgical tool that interacts with a virtual model of a patient's anatomy, enabling realistic practice of surgical techniques. The microscope also provides additional visual guidance, such as highlighting critical anatomical structures or displaying measurement data. The overall system aims to improve surgical skills by offering a realistic and interactive training environment.
16. The system of claim 9, wherein the incision line is shown as the virtual incision is made.
This invention relates to surgical navigation systems that assist in performing precise incisions during medical procedures. The system addresses the challenge of ensuring accurate incision placement while providing real-time visual feedback to the surgeon. The technology involves a surgical navigation system that tracks the position of a surgical tool in relation to a patient's anatomy, typically using imaging data such as CT or MRI scans. The system generates a virtual incision line that represents the intended path of the incision, which is overlaid onto the patient's anatomy in real-time during the procedure. As the surgeon makes the incision, the system dynamically updates the display to show the actual incision line being created, allowing for immediate comparison between the intended and actual paths. This real-time feedback helps the surgeon correct deviations and maintain precision. The system may also include features such as tool tracking, anatomical registration, and display adjustments to enhance accuracy and usability. The invention improves surgical outcomes by reducing errors and ensuring that incisions follow the planned trajectory.
17. The system of claim 15, wherein the display provides an indication if the virtual incision deviates beyond a predetermined distance from the guideline.
This invention relates to a surgical navigation system that assists in performing precise virtual incisions during medical procedures. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining accuracy in surgical cuts, particularly in minimally invasive or robotic-assisted surgeries where direct visual guidance is limited. The system includes a display that shows a guideline representing the intended incision path and a virtual incision tool that tracks the surgeon's movements in real time. The display provides visual feedback to ensure the virtual incision follows the guideline accurately. If the virtual incision deviates beyond a predetermined distance from the guideline, the system alerts the surgeon by displaying an indication, such as a warning symbol or color change. This feature helps prevent errors and improves procedural safety by ensuring the incision stays within acceptable bounds. The system may also include a tracking mechanism to monitor the position and orientation of the surgical tool relative to the patient's anatomy, ensuring precise alignment with the planned incision path. The display may further show additional anatomical landmarks or pre-operative imaging data to enhance spatial awareness. The invention aims to reduce human error and improve the consistency of surgical outcomes by providing real-time feedback and guidance.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the incision line is shown as the virtual incision is made.
A surgical navigation system provides real-time visualization of an incision line during a medical procedure. The system includes a tracking device that monitors the position of a surgical tool in relation to a patient's anatomy, displayed on a graphical interface. The system projects a virtual incision line onto the patient's body, updating in real-time as the surgeon makes the incision. This helps the surgeon align the incision with the intended path, reducing errors and improving precision. The system may also include a display that shows the incision line as it is being made, providing immediate feedback to the surgeon. The tracking device may use optical, electromagnetic, or mechanical sensors to determine the tool's position. The graphical interface may overlay the incision line on a pre-operative image or a live camera feed of the patient. The system may also include safety features, such as alerts if the incision deviates from the planned path. This technology is particularly useful in minimally invasive surgeries where precision is critical.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the indication is shown on the display.
A system for displaying indications on a graphical user interface (GUI) is designed to enhance user interaction with digital content. The system includes a display device, a processor, and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to generate and present visual indications on the display. These indications are used to convey information to the user, such as status updates, alerts, or interactive prompts. The system may also include input devices, such as touchscreens or keyboards, to allow users to interact with the displayed content. The processor processes input signals from these devices and updates the display accordingly. The system may further include communication interfaces to receive data from external sources, which can then be processed and displayed as indications. The indications are dynamically generated based on real-time data or user actions, ensuring timely and relevant feedback. This system is particularly useful in applications requiring immediate user attention, such as notifications in messaging apps, status updates in productivity tools, or alerts in monitoring systems. The display of indications helps users quickly understand the state of the system or application, improving efficiency and reducing errors.
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January 18, 2022
May 14, 2024
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